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Minister Looking At Further Interventions At Wellington's Councils
Russell Palmer, Political Reporter
The Local Government Minister says he's looking at further intervention options around Wellington's councils.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon earlier said Wellington's councils were "lame-o" for not putting in a bid for a city or regional deal before the deadline.
Regional Council chairperson Daran Ponter this morning told RNZ the Leadership Committee had come to the conclusion it needed more time, as the regional council did not want to rush a proposal through.
Asked about that, the minister, Simon Watts, said he was also concerned about the recent reports from Wellington Water.
"I actually met with the Wellington Water board chair, CEO and water board yesterday. I made my concerns clear them that obviously the feedback that we've seen from the reports is not meeting expectations.
"I'm considering intervention options that I have as minister in regards to that and I'll be making further decisions this week.
"You'll be aware that I currently have an observer that sits on the Wellington Council, I'm currently looking at what options I have available... I'm just waiting on that advice at the moment."
Watts' predecessor in the role, Simeon Brown, had appointed the Crown Observer Lindsay McKenzie in October after Wellington City Council chose to rewrite its long-term plan.
McKenzie reported in January a combination of issues had caused disruption, saying "it is surprising that the organisation hasn't totally wilted under the pressure".
Watts said he has not spoken to Luxon about "the specific topic area" around the city and regional deals, "but I do share his concerns absolutely that Wellington ratepayers are very concerned about the situation".
Asked about Luxon's characterisation of the councils as "lame-o", he said it was important to transition to the Local Water Done Well model.
"I always agree with the prime minister," he said.
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